KT : Latest Updates and Key Insights

iPhone RCS Launches in Korea with SK Telecom, KT and LG Uplus

Tech News & Insight
September 22, 2025
Hema Kadia

Korea’s three national carriers have enabled Rich Communication Services (RCS) on iPhones via Apple’s recent iOS update, bringing Android–iOS parity for default messaging to a market long dominated by OTT apps. SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus now support RCS for iPhone users across Korea, extending capabilities that previously existed only on Android. RCS on iPhone is available on iPhone 11 series and newer models running the latest iOS update, with activation dependent on carrier support and user settings. Users gain modern chat features including group messaging with up to 100 Android participants, read receipts, typing indicators, replies, and support for richer media.

Devices
Apple, Devices, GSMA, KT, LG Uplus, OTT, Policy, SMS
Education, Retail, Telecom

KT data breach exposes IMSI, payments at risk

Tech News & Insight
September 11, 2025
Hema Kadia

KT disclosed that IMSI information for 5,561 subscribers may have been exposed in connection with a wave of fraudulent mobile payments starting August 27, concentrated in parts of southwestern Seoul. As of midweek, authorities tallied 278 unauthorized transactions totaling roughly 170 million won. KT reported the incident to the Personal Information Protection Commission and the Korea Internet & Security Agency, notified impacted users, and pledged compensation. A government special team has begun a coordinated probe, and the science minister publicly pressed KT to cooperate fully and restore trust.

5G, AI, RAN, Security
3GPP, Devices, eSIM, Investment, KT, LTE, Mobility, Policy, SMS
Commerce, Telecom

Korean Telecoms Launch 300B-Won AI & Semiconductor Fund

Tech News & Insight
August 13, 2025
Hema K

South Korea’s government and its three national carriers are aligning fresh capital to speed AI and semiconductor competitiveness and to anchor a private-led innovation flywheel. SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus will seed a new pool exceeding 300 billion won (about $219 million) via the Korea IT Fund (KIF) to back core and foundational AI, AI transformation (AX), and commercialization in ICT. KIF, formed in 2002 by the carriers, will receive 150 billion won in new commitments, matched by at least an equal amount from external fund managers. The platforms lifespan has been extended to 2040 to sustain long-cycle bets.

5G, AI, Assurance, Automation, Edge/MEC, Open RAN, RAN, Semiconductor
3GPP, Data Center, GenAI, Investment, KT, LG Uplus, SKT, Startups
Manufacturing, Telecom

SK Telecom Data Breach: Analysis and Industry Impact

Tech News & Insight
May 2, 2025
Hema Kadia

The recent SK Telecom data breach, termed the industry’s worst by CEO Ryu Young-sang, led to a massive customer exodus and highlighted urgent cybersecurity needs. With 70,000 users lost, the telecom giant faces financial and legal challenges, emphasizing the critical role of robust data security measures.

Samsung and KT Partner on 6G Research to Enhance Signal Quality

Tech News & Insight
April 1, 2025
Hema Kadia

Samsung Electronics and KT Corporation have entered a strategic partnership to develop 6G network technologies, focusing on improving signal quality and system performance. Their research prioritizes advanced antenna systems like X-MIMO and AI-driven wireless communication enhancements. The companies aim to tackle high-frequency signal loss in the 7 GHz band and improve network reliability through beamforming and multi-spatial transmission.

5G, 6G, AI
KT, Samsung, Spectrum

SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus CEOs Push for AI Investment Support in Meeting with Science Minister

News
November 13, 2024
Hema Kadia

The CEOs of SK Telecom, KT, and LG Uplus met with South Korea’s Science Minister to push for stronger government support for AI investment. Key discussions focused on public-private collaboration, tax incentives, and regulatory reforms to drive AI innovation and maintain South Korea’s telecom competitiveness.

5G, AI
Data Center, KT, LG Uplus, SKT

Samsung & KT to Build Private 5G Network for Korean Navy

Usecase
October 16, 2024
Hema Kadia

Samsung Electronics and KT Corporation will deploy the Republic of Korea Navy’s first Private 5G network by December 2025. The Smart Naval Port project aims to improve security and operational efficiency for the Navy’s 2nd Fleet. Using Samsung’s 5G SA Compact Core and KT’s advanced infrastructure, this network will enhance real-time communication, unmanned vehicle control, and intelligent security monitoring.

5G, Digital Twin, Private Networks, Security
KT, Private 5G, Samsung
Aerospace and Defense

Generative AI: Telco-Tech Partnerships

Tech News & Insight
April 5, 2025
Hema Kadia

Discover how generative AI is transforming the telecom industry through strategic partnerships between telcos and tech vendors. These collaborations embed AI at the core of operations, enhancing connectivity, operational efficiencies, and customer experiences. Stay informed about the latest developments and the impact of AI and Gen-driven innovations in telecommunications.